Description
A hearty Irish stew that combines tender beef, smoky bacon, and the deep, malty flavor of Guinness, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2.5 lb (1.25 kg) beef chuck, boneless short rib or any other slow‑cooking beef (no bone)
- 3/4 tsp each salt and black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 onions, chopped (brown, white or yellow)
- 6 oz (180g) bacon, speck or pancetta, diced
- 3 tbsp all‑purpose flour (for gluten‑free, substitute with cornstarch)
- 440 ml (14.9 oz) Guinness beer (Note 1)
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups (750 ml) chicken or beef broth (or beef broth – Note 4)
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1.25 cm (½ in) thick pieces
- 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2 cm (1 in) pieces
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme leaves)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium‑high heat. Brown the beef chunks in batches, ensuring they develop a rich crust. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add bacon and cook until crisp. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1‑2 minutes to form a light roux.
- Pour in Guinness beer, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add tomato paste and stir until combined.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, celery, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2‑2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Tip: For a richer flavor, marinate the beef overnight. Substitute any stout beer if Guinness isn’t available. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: B
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef stew, Guinness, comfort food, slow cooking